In today's world, when technology and access to various stimulants are at our fingertips, the problem of addiction is becoming more and more common. Modern addictions are no longer limited to psychoactive substances, but also include technologies, behaviors, and other forms of consumption. In this article, we will look at how modern addictions affect life expectancy and what their long-term effects are.

Modern addictions are conditions in which an individual loses control over a behavior or substance, which leads to negative consequences for physical, mental, and social health. Unlike traditional addictions such as alcoholism or drug addiction, modern addictions can involve both new substances and behaviors related to technology or lifestyle.

The Most Common Addictions of the 21st Century

Technology
Technology addiction involves excessive use of electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, tablets, the internet, social media, and video games. Symptoms of this addiction include spending a lot of time online, neglecting responsibilities, relationship problems, and difficulty breaking away from the screen.

Psychoactive substances
Psychoactive substances such as alcohol, drugs and nicotine continue to pose a serious threat to public health. In recent years, new substances such as synthetic opioids (e.g. fentanyl) and e-cigarettes have also gained popularity, carrying previously unknown health risks.

Gambling
Gambling addiction is a serious problem that can lead to financial and emotional devastation. Online casinos, sports betting, and online gambling make access to gambling easier than ever before, which increases the risk of addiction. Gambling is particularly dangerous because the mechanisms of games are often designed to be addictive. The reward system, sound and visual effects, and the ability to play continuously without interruption are just some of the factors that influence the development of addiction. People addicted to gambling often lose control over their behavior, which leads to loss of money, debt, and even crime. In extreme cases, gambling can lead to suicide.

Eating disorders
Modern addictions can also take the form of eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, and compulsive overeating. The influence of social media and the emphasis on perfect appearance can contribute to the development of these disorders, which have serious health consequences.

The Impact of Modern Addictions on Physical Health

Heart disease
Addictions, especially those related to psychoactive substances, can lead to serious cardiovascular problems. Drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines increase the risk of heart attacks, while excessive alcohol consumption can lead to cardiomyopathy and other heart diseases. Even addictions related to technology, leading to a sedentary lifestyle, can contribute to obesity, a key risk factor for heart disease.

Respiratory problems
Cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use lead to serious respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer and other respiratory diseases.Modern nicotine substitutes such as e-cigarettes are still being studied for their long-term health effects, but preliminary results suggest they may be as harmful as traditional cigarettes.

Metabolic diseases
Addictions to junk food and a sedentary lifestyle associated with technology addiction can lead to metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes, obesity and other related health problems. Compulsive overeating and a diet high in processed foods can lead to weight problems, which in turn affects overall health and life expectancy.

The Impact of Modern Addictions on Mental Health

Depression and anxiety
Modern addictions have a significant impact on mental health. Addiction to social media, for example, can lead to comparing yourself to others and lowering your self-esteem, which often results in depression and anxiety. Excessive use of the internet and computer games can also lead to social isolation, which worsens mental health problems.

Sleep disorders
Electronic screens emit blue light, which disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm. People addicted to technology often experience sleep disorders such as insomnia, which in turn affects their ability to concentrate, their mental health, and their overall quality of life.

Cognitive disorders
Addictions can lead to serious cognitive disorders. For example, substance abuse can damage neurons and lead to problems with memory, concentration, and decision-making. Even addiction to technology, especially computer games, can affect cognitive abilities, reducing the ability to concentrate and process information.

Socioeconomic consequences of addiction

Addictions also have serious socioeconomic consequences. People with addictions often lose their jobs or have difficulty maintaining stable employment, which leads to financial and social problems. The costs of treating addictions and related health problems are enormous and place a significant burden on healthcare systems.

Ways to prevent and treat addictions

Education and awareness
The basis of combating addictions is education and raising awareness of their effects. Educational programs in schools, social campaigns and access to reliable information can help prevent addictions, especially among young people.

Psychological support
Addiction treatment requires a comprehensive approach that includes psychological support. Individual, group, and family therapy are key elements of the treatment process. Professional psychological help can help people with addictions deal with the causes of their addictions and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Pharmacotherapy
In some cases, addiction treatment involves the use of pharmacotherapy. Medications can be used to relieve withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings for the substance, and treat co-occurring health problems such as depression or anxiety.

Rehabilitation programs
Rehabilitation programs offer support to people with addictions through comprehensive care that includes therapy, education, life skills training, and support in returning to normal social and professional functioning. These programs are especially effective in cases of severe addictions.

Social support
Support from family, friends, and community is essential for those struggling with addiction. Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous provide a place where addicts can share their experiences and receive support from others who are going through similar problems.

Modern addictions and stimulants have a huge impact on life expectancy and the quality of physical and mental health. As technology and access to various substances become more widespread, the risk of addiction also increases. Education, awareness, psychological support and rehabilitation programs are key to combating these problems. Understanding and counteracting modern addictions is not only a matter of public health, but also of caring for future generations.

Sources:

• American Psychological Association. (2021). The impact of technology on health and well-being.
• National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2022). Drug addiction and its impact on health.
• World Health Organization. (2021). The health consequences of smoking and nicotine use.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Obesity and metabolic health.
• National Sleep Foundation. (2021). How technology affects sleep.
• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Depression and anxiety related to substance abuse.
• Harvard Medical School. (2021). The effects of addiction on cognitive functions.
• Journal of Behavioral Addictions. (2021). The socio-economic impacts of gambling addiction.
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2022). Treatment and recovery for substance use disorders.
• European Monitoring Center for Drugs and Drug Addiction. (2021). New psychoactive substances and their health risks.